Peripheral lymphadenopathy in Nigerian children

Abstract

Aim: Peripheral lymphadenopathy remains an extremely common clinical problem in Paediatrics. To define the causes of lymph node enlargement in children in this environment.

Material and methods: A 20 year (1984-2003) retrospective study was conducted on all lymph node biopsies received from children (0-14 years) at the Department of Pathology, University of Benin Teaching Hospital, Benin City, Nigeria. Information derived from this study should serve as a diagnostic guide to clinicians.

Results: A total of 126 lymph node biopsies were received from children constituting 22.8% of all lymph nodes biopsies received during the period of study. The mean age was 8.3 years (SD +/- 3.1 years). Most (66.7%) cases were males. Regional adenopathy was observed in 90.5% of cases. Overall, the cervical group of lymph nodes was most commonly affected comprising 64 (50.8%) cases. Tuberculosis was the predominant cause of peripheral lymphadenopathy constituting 61 cases (48.4%) and also the commonest cause of cervical lymphadenopathy (62.5%). Non-specific reactive changes, non Hodgkin's lymphoma, Hodgkin's lymphoma and metastatic carcinoma were seen in 32 (25.4%), 22 (17.4%), 7 (5.6%), and 2 (1.6%) cases respectively. Kaposi sarcoma and sarcoidosis constituted one case each.

Conclusion: In conclusion, the pattern of disease is similar to that of other developing countries. The triad of symptoms including fever, fatigue and weight loss, were recurrent in tuberculous and lymphoma patients. It is thus, imperative to commence antituberculous therapy only after histological diagnosis.